used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
Adraste
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
a positive feeling of liking
From this reading If the affection that finds expression in numerous Christmas gifts can make a child contented, Lady Jane had certainly no reason to complain.
in spite of the fact that
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
at the same time that; because; in the way that
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
in or near a particular place or position
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
inflected form of “awake” — stop sleeping
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
banglenounUS /ˈbæŋɡəl/
jewelry worn around the wrist for decoration
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
beingauxiliary verbUS /ˈbiːɪŋ/
the -ing form of “be”
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
fearless and daring
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
cause to be bored
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
emitting or reflecting light readily or in large amounts
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
bulgedverbUS /bʌldʒd/
past form of “bulge” — swell or protrude outwards
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
inflected form of “come” — move toward, travel toward something or somebody or approach something or somebody
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
to be able to, or to be allowed to
From this reading If the affection that finds expression in numerous Christmas gifts can make a child contented, Lady Jane had certainly no reason to complain.
one of a set of small pieces of stiff paper marked in various ways and used for playing games or for telling fortunes
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
definitely or positively (“sure” is sometimes used informally for “surely”)
From this reading If the affection that finds expression in numerous Christmas gifts can make a child contented, Lady Jane had certainly no reason to complain.
plural of “character” — an imaginary person represented in a work of fiction (play or film or story)
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
being full of or promoting cheer; having or showing good spirits
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
a young person of either sex
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
chimney-corner
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
period extending from Dec. 24 to Jan. 6
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
in a close relation or position in time or space
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
complainverbUS /kəmˈpleɪn/
express complaints, discontent, displeasure, or unhappiness
From this reading If the affection that finds expression in numerous Christmas gifts can make a child contented, Lady Jane had certainly no reason to complain.
contentedadjectiveUS /kənˈtentəd/
satisfied or showing satisfaction with things as they are
From this reading If the affection that finds expression in numerous Christmas gifts can make a child contented, Lady Jane had certainly no reason to complain.
Crismus
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
criticaladjectiveUS /ˈkrɪtɪkəl/
marked by a tendency to find and call attention to errors and flaws
From this reading Adraste was very proud of his English, and as Lady Jane was more grateful than critical it passed muster.
the time during which someone's life continues
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
desiresnounUS /dɪˈzaɪərz/
plural of “desire” — the feeling that accompanies an unsatisfied state
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
detectedadjectiveUS /dɪˈtektəd/
perceived or discerned
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
dollnounUS /dɑːl/
a small replica of a person; used as a toy
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
dressyadjectiveUS /ˈdresi/
in fancy clothing
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
encirclingadjectiveUS /enˈsɜːrkəlɪŋ/
being all around the edges; enclosing
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
an Indo-European language belonging to the West Germanic branch; the official language of Britain and the United States and most of the commonwealth countries
From this reading Adraste was very proud of his English, and as Lady Jane was more grateful than critical it passed muster.
divisible by two
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
expansionnounUS /ɪkˈspænʃən/
the act of increasing (something) in size or volume or quantity or scope
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
the feelings expressed on a person's face
From this reading If the affection that finds expression in numerous Christmas gifts can make a child contented, Lady Jane had certainly no reason to complain.
extravagantadjectiveUS /ekˈstrævəɡənt/
unrestrained, especially with regard to feelings
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
opinion or judgment
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
cause to fall by or as if by delivering a blow
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
(usually followed by “with” or used as a combining form) generously supplied with
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
plural of “find” — a productive insight
From this reading If the affection that finds expression in numerous Christmas gifts can make a child contented, Lady Jane had certainly no reason to complain.
firstadjectiveUS /fɜːrst/
preceding all others in time or space or degree
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
intended to be given to, or used by, somebody
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
French-gilt
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
giftsnounUS /ɡɪfts/
plural of “gift” — something acquired without compensation
From this reading If the affection that finds expression in numerous Christmas gifts can make a child contented, Lady Jane had certainly no reason to complain.
feeling or showing gratitude
From this reading Adraste was very proud of his English, and as Lady Jane was more grateful than critical it passed muster.
hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/
the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect
From this reading If the affection that finds expression in numerous Christmas gifts can make a child contented, Lady Jane had certainly no reason to complain.
decoration that is hung (as a tapestry) on a wall or over a window
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
enjoying or showing or marked by joy or pleasure
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
the locus of feelings and intuitions
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
belonging to a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
used when the woman or girl doing the action is also its object
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned
From this reading Adraste was very proud of his English, and as Lady Jane was more grateful than critical it passed muster.
plural of “hope” — a specific instance of feeling hopeful
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
on condition that; in the event that
From this reading If the affection that finds expression in numerous Christmas gifts can make a child contented, Lady Jane had certainly no reason to complain.
impecuniousadjective
not having enough money to pay for necessities
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
inside something, or within a place, period, or state
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
inscribedadjectiveUS /ˌɪnˈskraɪbd/
written (by handwriting, printing, engraving, or carving) on or in a surface
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
resulting from one's intentions
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned
From this reading Adraste was very proud of his English, and as Lady Jane was more grateful than critical it passed muster.
belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
Jane
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
JANE'S
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
Jozain
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
(especially of promises or contracts) not violated or disregarded
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
a polite name for any woman
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
staying power
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
feeling or showing love and affection
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
the basic unit of length adopted under the Systeme International d'Unites (approximately 1.094 yards)
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
madame's
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
engage in
From this reading If the affection that finds expression in numerous Christmas gifts can make a child contented, Lady Jane had certainly no reason to complain.
mery
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
(comparative of “much” used with mass nouns) a quantifier meaning greater in size or amount or extent or degree
From this reading Adraste was very proud of his English, and as Lady Jane was more grateful than critical it passed muster.
to a great degree or extent
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
an artistic form of auditory communication incorporating instrumental or vocal tones in a structured and continuous manner
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
musterverbUS /ˈmʌstər/
gather or bring together
From this reading Adraste was very proud of his English, and as Lady Jane was more grateful than critical it passed muster.
assign a specified (usually proper) proper name to
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
not any; not one
From this reading If the affection that finds expression in numerous Christmas gifts can make a child contented, Lady Jane had certainly no reason to complain.
used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
a brief written record
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
amounting to a large indefinite number
From this reading If the affection that finds expression in numerous Christmas gifts can make a child contented, Lady Jane had certainly no reason to complain.
belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
touching and supported by a surface
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
used to join alternatives or possibilities
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
outwardlyadverbUS /ˈaʊtwərdli/
with respect to the outside
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
past form of “pass” — go across or through
From this reading Adraste was very proud of his English, and as Lady Jane was more grateful than critical it passed muster.
Pepsie
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
PRESENTSnounUS /ˈprezənts/
plural of “present” — the period of time that is happening now; any continuous stretch of time including the moment of speech
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
feeling self-respect or pleasure in something by which you measure your self-worth; or being a reason for pride
From this reading Adraste was very proud of his English, and as Lady Jane was more grateful than critical it passed muster.
Raste
Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
a rational motive for a belief or action
From this reading If the affection that finds expression in numerous Christmas gifts can make a child contented, Lady Jane had certainly no reason to complain.
regretsnounUS /rɪˈɡrets/
a polite refusal of an invitation
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
(of pain or sorrow) made easier to bear
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
past form of “remember” — recall knowledge from memory; have a recollection
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
experiencing or showing sorrow or unhappiness
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned, as the subject
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
being of delicate or slender build
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
stockingsnounUS /ˈstɑːkɪŋz/
plural of “stocking” — close-fitting hosiery to cover the foot and leg; come in matched pairs (usually used in the plural)
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
swollenadjectiveUS /ˈswoʊlən/
characteristic of false pride; having an exaggerated sense of self-importance
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
used to introduce the second part of a comparison
From this reading Adraste was very proud of his English, and as Lady Jane was more grateful than critical it passed muster.
used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
belonging to the people or things already mentioned
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
the people or things already mentioned, as the object
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
a special situation
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
the content of cognition; the main thing you are thinking about
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
a more or less definite period of time now or previously present
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
underneathprepositionUS /ˌʌndərˈniːθ/
directly under, often hidden by what is above
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
undueadjectiveUS /ənˈduː/
not yet payable
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
precisely as stated
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
the distinctive quality or pitch or condition of a person's speech
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
the narrowing of the body between the ribs and hips
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
the act of waiting (remaining inactive in one place while expecting something)
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/
the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
past form of “watch” — look attentively
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
inflected form of “go” — change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
any or all of a kind, it does not matter which
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
at the time that
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned
From this reading The first thing on which her eyes fell when she awoke was her stockings, the slender legs very much swollen and bulged, hanging in madame’s chimney-corner, waiting to be relieved of their undue expansion.
which person or people
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
wistfulnessnounUS /ˈwɪstfəlnəs/
a sadly pensive longing
From this reading LADY JANE’S CHRISTMAS PRESENTS Christmas came and went; and whatever hopes, desires, or regrets filled the loving little heart of Lady Jane, the child kept them to herself, and was outwardly as bright and cheerful as on other days, although Pepsie, who watched her closely, thought that she detected a wistfulness in her eyes, and, at times, a sad note in the music of her happy voice.
in the company of; together with
From this reading Even Raste—the extravagant and impecunious Raste—had remembered her; for a very dressy doll, with a French-gilt bangle encircling its waist (the bangle being intended not for the doll, but for Lady Jane), bore a card on which was inscribed in bold characters, “M. Adraste Jozain,” and underneath the name, “A mery Crismus.”
